Violence during Wits University protests distressing

Reports of violence, intimidation, and hate speech directed against lesbians, Jews and whites during the protests at Wits University yesterday are distressing. While the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) is sensitive to the myriad serious issues facing students in this country, it is never acceptable to target minority groups and inflame hatred. According to comments and photos on Twitter, a student claims: “They strangled me, choke-slammed me, threatened me. After, they said ‘queer bodies + feminists not welcome.” In another tweet, it was noted that students were ushered out of buildings by protestors shouting: “Whites must die! Jews must die!”

Universities offer more than a formal education. They also provide opportunities for students to learn more about pluralism, tolerance, diversity and respect. The current behaviour of the protestors is dangerous, and we call on them to desist from this unacceptable prejudiced action. The SAJBD will be investigating the matter further.

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SAJBD is appalled by the statement issued by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)

The South African Jewish Board of Deputies is appalled by the statement issued by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), following the attack on Member of Parliament (MP) Emma Powell during their Cape Town event on South Africa’s G20 strategic goals last week. SAIIA’s statement acquiesced to the bullying and intimidation, blamed the victim, deflected responsibility, and sided with the perpetrators of this ambush against Powell.

​On this day : 10 May 2024

On this day : 10 May 2024

The SAJBD protested against Naledi Pandor on her call to import antisemitism and violence against Jewish students onto SA University campuses. She was speaking at the opening the Global Anti-Apartheid conference.